The transfer portal has turned student-athletes into unrestricted free agents every season, and even after a standout season, BYU football is not exempt from the transfer bug.
The portal giveth and the portal taketh away, and though it's provided the Cougars with some major upgrades, some significant pieces have announced their departure from the program.
Deeper we venture into the offseason, and with every day, another player finds a new home for the following season. Seeing a former Cougar don another teams' colors is always a strange experience, and I felt an awkward sensation seeing Keenan Pili captain the Tennessee defense, seeing playoff minutes before any of his former teammates back in Provo.
So, which players will suit up for another team this year? Who's braving a whole new wardrobe, a new color scheme, and a permanent change of scenery? These are great questions that I've asked myself, so I'll stop wasting both of our time and jump into the meat of this article--you know, the part that you've already skimmed to.
Cougar Migration
Prince Zombo | WR | BYU -> Utah Tech
BYU suffered a massive loss in All-Name First Team honoree, Prince Zombo, when he announced his commitment to another Beehive State Program. Zombo didn't see much time on the field in Provo, but should get more reps in St. George.
Kody Epps | WR | BYU -> Western Kentucky
A standout receiver two seasons ago, but struggled to see the field after an early-season injury kept him sidelined. This is the second time Kody had entered the transfer portal, but after rejoining BYU last season, neither party really saw a bump in production. This split makes sense, but we're certain he'll be great in Kentucky.
Micah Harper | DB | BYU -> Montana
Micah Harper has relocated as a grad transfer. While not an FBS program, Montana is a consistent power in their division, challenging for the national championship on a yearly basis.
Crew Wakely | DB | BYU -> Purdue
Crew's was a surprising jump, as he enjoyed a great year in Provo under Jay Hill's watch. The safety delivered a game-sealing interception against Baylor, and saw plenty of playing time. Sometimes, players are just ready for a change.